History Fort Lauderdale (New River Inn)
Broward County's oldest hotel, now a museum showcasing Fort Lauderdale's history and local art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Meet local artists
History Fort Lauderdale (New River Inn)
Best Time
Meet local artists
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Broward County's oldest hotel, now a museum showcasing Fort Lauderdale's history and local art.
"A beautiful and authentic museum that has transformed into a history museum with impressive exhibits."
🎨 Explore Artist Studios
Visit the third floor to see local artists at work and browse their unique creations.
📚 Attend Author Events
Check for free book signings and talks by local authors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
New River Inn Exhibits
Main building
Explore the city's rich history through engaging exhibits housed in Broward County's oldest hotel.
Local Artist Studios
Third floor
Discover unique creations and meet local artists in their working studios.
Viva Fort Lauderdale Exhibit
Exhibition hall
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with vibrant displays showcasing local culture and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Fort Lauderdale's Past
Art & History Intertwined
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎨 Explore Artist Studios
Visit the third floor to see local artists at work and browse their unique creations.
📚 Attend Author Events
Check for free book signings and talks by local authors.
👻 Join a Ghost Tour
Experience a paranormal investigation of the historic, reportedly haunted, New River Inn.
🚶♀️ Accessible First Floor
The first floor is accessible, but check for elevator access to the second floor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎨 Explore Artist Studios
Visit the third floor to see local artists at work and browse their unique creations.
📚 Attend Author Events
Check for free book signings and talks by local authors.
👻 Join a Ghost Tour
Experience a paranormal investigation of the historic, reportedly haunted, New River Inn.
🚶♀️ Accessible First Floor
The first floor is accessible, but check for elevator access to the second floor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise History Fort Lauderdale for its authentic portrayal of the city's past and its unique blend of history and local art. The New River Inn setting is consistently highlighted as charming and atmospheric. While most reviews are positive, some mention accessibility concerns and occasional facility issues.
"This beautiful and authentic museum, which was once the first hotel in Fort Lauderdale, has transformed into a history museum. They have an impressive collection of exhibits that showcase the city’s rich history throughout the year. On the third floor, you’ll find artist studios where you can see the work of local artists. Currently, they have a fantastic exhibit called Viva Fort Lauderdale, which celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month and will be on display until October 19. It’s definitely worth visiting!"
Fran
"Beautiful old house on the New River...We attended a book signing by Frank Sullivan retired fire captain. I looked through the individual rooms. They are all different and fascinating. Items for purchase . 2nd floor. I didn't go up..next time !!"
Melissa Gessner
"Looked really interesting as I was walking by so I pooped in for a visit. Staff were friendly and the exhibit was really fascinating full of information about the history of the area and it's people. The artwork on display from local people was great as well.
Downstairs is fully accessible but I never saw a lift to get to the second floor.
There are restrooms on the 1st and second floor although when I visited the ground floor restrooms were out of order."
Lisa McKnight
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
History Fort Lauderdale is located in downtown Fort Lauderdale. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, the 'Circuit' free shuttle service operates in the Fort Lauderdale Beach area, which might be a starting point for exploring further. Parking information should be checked locally, as downtown areas can have varied options.
Parking availability and cost can vary in downtown Fort Lauderdale. It's recommended to check local parking garages or street parking regulations before your visit. Some visitors mention looking into parking options when planning their trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally reasonable, with specific pricing for general entry and special events like paranormal investigations. Some events, like author book signings, are advertised as free. 
Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check the official History Fort Lauderdale website or their social media for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and event schedules.
For special events like paranormal investigations or author talks, advance ticket purchase is often recommended or required. Check platforms like Eventbrite for specific event ticketing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits detailing Fort Lauderdale's history from the late 1800s to today, see local artwork in artist studios, and experience the charm of the historic New River Inn.
The New River Inn, part of History Fort Lauderdale, is reportedly haunted and hosts paranormal investigation events, offering a unique spooky experience.
Restrooms are available on the first and second floors, though one visitor noted the ground floor restrooms were out of order during their visit.
The first floor of History Fort Lauderdale is fully accessible. Information regarding elevator access to the second floor should be confirmed directly with the venue.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While History Fort Lauderdale itself may not have a full-service restaurant, some events offer light bites and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the museum and artist studios, but always be respectful of exhibits and artists. Check for any specific restrictions on professional photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking the schedule for any family-friendly events or workshops that might be happening during your visit. While the paranormal investigations might be too intense for very young children, older kids might find the 'haunted' aspect intriguing.
Ensure you check accessibility for strollers or young children, as the historic nature of the building might present some challenges on upper floors. 👻 Thrill-Seekers & Paranormal Enthusiasts
+2 These events allow participants to learn about paranormal investigation equipment and conduct their own hands-on investigations within the historic building. It's a chance to experience history with a spooky twist.These investigations are typically ticketed events and require advance booking.
They offer a different perspective on the historic site, delving into its rumored spectral inhabitants. If you're looking for an unconventional and thrilling way to engage with history, this is an experience not to be missed.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Fort Lauderdale's History
Beyond the permanent collections, History Fort Lauderdale frequently hosts special exhibits. For instance, the 'Viva Fort Lauderdale' exhibit celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting the diverse cultural influences on the city.
For those seeking a more interactive historical experience, History Fort Lauderdale also offers unique events. The paranormal investigations held at the New River Inn tap into the building's rumored haunted past, providing a thrilling twist to historical discovery.
+2 These events, along with author talks and book signings, demonstrate the museum's commitment to engaging the community with its history in diverse and exciting ways.Artistic Expressions at the Inn
This blend of history and contemporary art provides a multifaceted experience, appealing to a wide range of interests. It's a chance to discover local talent and perhaps even find a unique piece to take home.The studios house a variety of artistic disciplines, from painting to other forms of visual art.
The presence of these studios adds a lively atmosphere to the museum, making it more than just a repository of the past. It's a place where history and present-day creativity coexist, offering a fresh perspective on Fort Lauderdale's cultural landscape. Attending on a Saturday can be particularly rewarding, as it's often when artists are most likely to be present and engaging with visitors.
This direct connection with the artists enhances the experience, providing insights into their creative processes and inspirations. It's a chance to support the local arts community while enjoying the historical ambiance of the New River Inn.
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